Early payment dates for Universal Credit and other DWP benefits announced

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that some benefits, including Universal Credit, will be paid early next week due to the bank holiday. Universal Credit payments due on Wednesday, January 1, will be processed a day earlier on Tuesday, December 31, as benefits are not typically paid out on bank holidays.

Additionally, Child Benefit payments, usually made on Mondays and Tuesdays, will also be adjusted. Those expecting payments on Monday, December 30, will instead receive them on Tuesday, December 31.

Other benefits, such as Tax Credits scheduled for January 1 or January 2, may be paid earlier, with recipients receiving their payments on December 31, reports the Mirror. The payment amounts will remain the same unless there have been changes in personal circumstances.

Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, commented to say: “While a time of joy for many, the Christmas period can be overshadowed by financial worry for others, particularly for families on the lowest incomes.” He added: “Our Plan for Change will deliver the long-term economic stability and growth needed to improve every family’s financial security by putting more money in their pockets while we take immediate action to support them with the cost of living.”

For those worried about not receiving their payments, the DWP says funds will be deposited into the usual bank accounts where benefits are regularly paid.

If you think you have not received your payment, it’s recommended to first check your bank account. If the payment date is correct and the money hasn’t arrived, you should contact the relevant helpline.

However, remember that these may not be operational on bank holidays. For Universal Credit, ring 0800 328 9344 for free, or 0800 012 1888 if you’re a Welsh speaker, or use the textphone at 0800 328 1344.

For Child Benefit, call 0300 200 3100 for free, or +44 161 210 3086 if you’re outside the UK. For Tax Credits, get in touch with HMRC for free at 0345 300 3900, or +44 2890 538 192 if you’re abroad.

For Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Incapacity Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance, dial 0800 169 0310 for free, use the textphone at 0800 169 0314, or if you can’t hear or speak on the phone, use Relay UK at 18001 then 0800 169 0310.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/early-payment-dates-universal-credit-9824926

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